Method and System for Dynamically Updating Calibration Parameters for an Analyte Sensor

ABSTRACT

Methods and apparatuses for determining an analyte value are disclosed.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/970,464, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/571,375 filed Sep. 30, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,515,517, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/537,991 filed Oct. 2, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,618,369, entitled “Method and System for Dynamically Updating Calibration Parameters for an Analyte Sensor”, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

Analyte, e.g., glucose monitoring systems including continuous and discrete monitoring systems generally include a small, lightweight battery powered and microprocessor controlled system which is configured to detect signals proportional to the corresponding measured glucose levels using an electrometer, and RF signals to transmit the collected data. One aspect of certain analyte monitoring systems include a transcutaneous or subcutaneous analyte sensor configuration which is, for example, partially mounted on the skin of a subject whose analyte level is to be monitored. The sensor cell may use a two or three-electrode (work, reference and counter electrodes) configuration driven by a controlled potential (potentiostat) analog circuit connected through a contact system.

The analyte sensor may be configured so that a portion thereof is placed under the skin of the patient so as to detect the analyte levels of the patient, and another portion of segment of the analyte sensor that is in communication with the transmitter unit. The transmitter unit is configured to transmit the analyte levels detected by the sensor over a wireless communication link such as an RF (radio frequency) communication link to a receiver/monitor unit. The receiver/monitor unit performs data analysis, among others on the received analyte levels to generate information pertaining to the monitored analyte levels.

To obtain accurate data from the analyte sensor, calibration is necessary. Typically, blood glucose measurements are periodically obtained using, for example, a blood glucose meter, and the measured blood glucose values are used to calibrate the sensors. Indeed, the patient must calibrate each new analyte sensor using for example, capillary blood glucose measurements. Due to a lag factor between the monitored data and the measured blood glucose values, an error is typically introduced in the monitored data.

In view of the foregoing, it would be desirable to have a method and system for calibrating analyte sensors of an analyte monitoring system to minimize the lag error and compensation of such lag errors in analyte monitoring systems.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a method including determining a calibration parameter associated with a detected analyte value, calibrating the analyte value based on the calibration parameter, and dynamically updating the calibration parameter is disclosed.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a data monitoring and management system for practicing one or more embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the transmitter unit of the data monitoring and management system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the receiver/monitor unit of the data monitoring and management system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an overall dynamically updating calibration in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the lag correction and calibration routine of the overall dynamically updating calibration shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the lag correction and dynamically updating calibration routine of the overall dynamically updating calibration shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of the lag corrected and calibrated sensor data in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 8 illustrates a further example of the lag corrected and calibrated sensor data in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As described in further detail below, in accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method and system for calibration of analyte sensors to reduce errors in the sensor measurements. In particular, within the scope of the present invention, there are provided method and system for calibrating subcutaneous or transcutaneously positioned analyte sensors to compensate for lag errors associated with the estimated sensor sensitivity.

FIG. 1 illustrates a data monitoring and management system such as, for example, analyte (e.g., glucose) monitoring system 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The subject invention is further described primarily with respect to a glucose monitoring system for convenience and such description is in no way intended to limit the scope of the invention. It is to be understood that the analyte monitoring system may be configured to monitor a variety of analytes, e.g., lactate, and the like.

Analytes that may be monitored include, for example, acetyl choline, amylase, bilirubin, cholesterol, chorionic gonadotropin, creatine kinase (e.g., CK-MB), creatine, DNA, fructosamine, glucose, glutamine, growth hormones, hormones, ketones, lactate, peroxide, prostate-specific antigen, prothrombin, RNA, thyroid stimulating hormone, and troponin. The concentration of drugs, such as, for example, antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin, vancomycin, and the like), digitoxin, digoxin, drugs of abuse, theophylline, and warfarin, may also be monitored.

The analyte monitoring system 100 includes a sensor 101, a transmitter unit 102 coupled to the sensor 101, and a primary receiver unit 104 which is configured to communicate with the transmitter unit 102 via a communication link 103. The primary receiver unit 104 may be further configured to transmit data to a data processing terminal 105 for evaluating the data received by the primary receiver unit 104. Moreover, the data processing terminal in one embodiment may be configured to receive data directly from the transmitter unit 102 via a communication link which may optionally be configured for bi-directional communication.

Also shown in FIG. 1 is a secondary receiver unit 106 which is operatively coupled to the communication link and configured to receive data transmitted from the transmitter unit 102. Moreover, as shown in the Figure, the secondary receiver unit 106 is configured to communicate with the primary receiver unit 104 as well as the data processing terminal 105. Indeed, the secondary receiver unit 106 may be configured for bi-directional wireless communication with each of the primary receiver unit 104 and the data processing terminal 105. As discussed in further detail below, in one embodiment of the present invention, the secondary receiver unit 106 may be configured to include a limited number of functions and features as compared with the primary receiver unit 104. As such, the secondary receiver unit 106 may be configured substantially in a smaller compact housing or embodied in a device such as a wrist watch, for example. Alternatively, the secondary receiver unit 106 may be configured with the same or substantially similar functionality as the primary receiver unit 104, and may be configured to be used in conjunction with a docking cradle unit for placement by bedside, for night time monitoring, and/or bi-directional communication device.

Only one sensor 101, transmitter unit 102, communication link 103, and data processing terminal 105 are shown in the embodiment of the analyte monitoring system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. However, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the analyte monitoring system 100 may include one or more sensor 101, transmitter unit 102, communication link 103, and data processing terminal 105. Moreover, within the scope of the present invention, the analyte monitoring system 100 may be a continuous monitoring system, or semi-continuous, or a discrete monitoring system. In a multi-component environment, each device is configured to be uniquely identified by each of the other devices in the system so that communication conflict is readily resolved between the various components within the analyte monitoring system 100.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the sensor 101 is physically positioned in or on the body of a user whose analyte level is being monitored. The sensor 101 may be configured to continuously sample the analyte level of the user and convert the sampled analyte level into a corresponding data signal for transmission by the transmitter unit 102. In one embodiment, the transmitter unit 102 is mounted on the sensor 101 so that both devices are positioned on the user's body. The transmitter unit 102 performs data processing such as filtering and encoding on data signals, each of which corresponds to a sampled analyte level of the user, for transmission to the primary receiver unit 104 via the communication link 103.

In one embodiment, the analyte monitoring system 100 is configured as a one-way RF communication path from the transmitter unit 102 to the primary receiver unit 104. In such embodiment, the transmitter unit 102 transmits the sampled data signals received from the sensor 101 without acknowledgement from the primary receiver unit 104 that the transmitted sampled data signals have been received. For example, the transmitter unit 102 may be configured to transmit the encoded sampled data signals at a fixed rate (e.g., at one minute intervals) after the completion of the initial power on procedure. Likewise, the primary receiver unit 104 may be configured to detect such transmitted encoded sampled data signals at predetermined time intervals. Alternatively, the analyte monitoring system 100 may be configured with a bi-directional RF (or otherwise) communication between the transmitter unit 102 and the primary receiver unit 104.

Additionally, in one aspect, the primary receiver unit 104 may include two sections. The first section is an analog interface section that is configured to communicate with the transmitter unit 102 via the communication link 103. In one embodiment, the analog interface section may include an RF receiver and an antenna for receiving and amplifying the data signals from the transmitter unit 102, which are thereafter, demodulated with a local oscillator and filtered through a band-pass filter. The second section of the primary receiver unit 104 is a data processing section which is configured to process the data signals received from the transmitter unit 102 such as by performing data decoding, error detection and correction, data clock generation, and data bit recovery.

In operation, upon completing the power-on procedure, the primary receiver unit 104 is configured to detect the presence of the transmitter unit 102 within its range based on, for example, the strength of the detected data signals received from the transmitter unit 102 or a predetermined transmitter identification information. Upon successful synchronization with the corresponding transmitter unit 102, the primary receiver unit 104 is configured to begin receiving from the transmitter unit 102 data signals corresponding to the user's detected analyte level. More specifically, the primary receiver unit 104 in one embodiment is configured to perform synchronized time hopping with the corresponding synchronized transmitter unit 102 via the communication link 103 to obtain the user's detected analyte level.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the data processing terminal 105 may include a personal computer, a portable computer such as a laptop or a handheld device (e.g., personal digital assistants (PDAs)), and the like, each of which may be configured for data communication with the receiver via a wired or a wireless connection. Additionally, the data processing terminal 105 may further be connected to a data network (not shown) for storing, retrieving and updating data corresponding to the detected analyte level of the user.

Within the scope of the present invention, the data processing terminal 105 may include an infusion device such as an insulin infusion pump or the like, which may be configured to administer insulin to patients, and which may be configured to communicate with the receiver unit 104 for receiving, among others, the measured analyte level. Alternatively, the receiver unit 104 may be configured to integrate an infusion device therein so that the receiver unit 104 is configured to administer insulin therapy to patients, for example, for administering and modifying basal profiles, as well as for determining appropriate boluses for administration based on, among others, the detected analyte levels received from the transmitter unit 102.

Additionally, the transmitter unit 102, the primary receiver unit 104 and the data processing terminal 105 may each be configured for bi-directional wireless communication such that each of the transmitter unit 102, the primary receiver unit 104 and the data processing terminal 105 may be configured to communicate (that is, transmit data to and receive data from) with each other via a wireless communication link. More specifically, the data processing terminal 105 may in one embodiment be configured to receive data directly from the transmitter unit 102 via a communication link, where the communication link, as described above, may be configured for bi-directional communication.

In this embodiment, the data processing terminal 105 which may include an insulin pump, may be configured to receive the analyte signals from the transmitter unit 102, and thus, incorporate the functions of the receiver unit 104 including data processing for managing the patient's insulin therapy and analyte monitoring. In one embodiment, the communication link 103 may include one or more of an RF communication protocol, an infrared communication protocol, a Bluetooth® enabled communication protocol, an 802.11x wireless communication protocol, or an equivalent wireless communication protocol which would allow secure, wireless communication of several units (for example, per HIPAA requirements) while avoiding potential data collision and interference.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the transmitter of the data monitoring and detection system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to the Figure, the transmitter unit 102 in one embodiment includes an analog interface 201 configured to communicate with the sensor 101 (FIG. 1), a user input 202, and a temperature detection section 203, each of which is operatively coupled to a transmitter processor 204 such as a central processing unit (CPU). As can be seen from FIG. 2, there are provided four contacts, three of which are electrodes—work electrode (W) 210, guard contact (G) 211, reference electrode (R) 212, and counter electrode (C) 213, each operatively coupled to the analog interface 201 of the transmitter unit 102 for connection to the sensor 101 (FIG. 1). In one embodiment, each of the work electrode (W) 210, guard contact (G) 211, reference electrode (R) 212, and counter electrode (C) 213 may be made using a conductive material that is either printed or etched, for example, such as carbon which may be printed, or metal foil (e.g., gold) which may be etched.

Further shown in FIG. 2 are a transmitter serial communication section 205 and an RF transmitter 206, each of which is also operatively coupled to the transmitter processor 204. Moreover, a power supply 207 such as a battery is also provided in the transmitter unit 102 to provide the necessary power for the transmitter unit 102. Additionally, as can be seen from the Figure, clock 208 is provided to, among others, supply real time information to the transmitter processor 204.

In one embodiment, a unidirectional input path is established from the sensor 101 (FIG. 1) and/or manufacturing and testing equipment to the analog interface 201 of the transmitter unit 102, while a unidirectional output is established from the output of the RF transmitter 206 of the transmitter unit 102 for transmission to the primary receiver unit 104. In this manner, a data path is shown in FIG. 2 between the aforementioned unidirectional input and output via a dedicated link 209 from the analog interface 201 to serial communication section 205, thereafter to the processor 204, and then to the RF transmitter 206. As such, in one embodiment, via the data path described above, the transmitter unit 102 is configured to transmit to the primary receiver unit 104 (FIG. 1), via the communication link 103 (FIG. 1), processed and encoded data signals received from the sensor 101 (FIG. 1). Additionally, the unidirectional communication data path between the analog interface 201 and the RF transmitter 206 discussed above allows for the configuration of the transmitter unit 102 for operation upon completion of the manufacturing process as well as for direct communication for diagnostic and testing purposes.

As discussed above, the transmitter processor 204 is configured to transmit control signals to the various sections of the transmitter unit 102 during the operation of the transmitter unit 102. In one embodiment, the transmitter processor 204 also includes a memory (not shown) for storing data such as the identification information for the transmitter unit 102, as well as the data signals received from the sensor 101. The stored information may be retrieved and processed for transmission to the primary receiver unit 104 under the control of the transmitter processor 204. Furthermore, the power supply 207 may include a commercially available battery.

The transmitter unit 102 is also configured such that the power supply section 207 is capable of providing power to the transmitter for a minimum of about three months of continuous operation after having been stored for about eighteen months in a low-power (non-operating) mode. In one embodiment, this may be achieved by the transmitter processor 204 operating in low power modes in the non-operating state, for example, drawing no more than approximately 1 μA of current. Indeed, in one embodiment, the final step during the manufacturing process of the transmitter unit 102 may place the transmitter unit 102 in the lower power, non-operating state (i.e., post-manufacture sleep mode). In this manner, the shelf life of the transmitter unit 102 may be significantly improved. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, while the power supply unit 207 is shown as coupled to the processor 204, and as such, the processor 204 is configured to provide control of the power supply unit 207, it should be noted that within the scope of the present invention, the power supply unit 207 is configured to provide the necessary power to each of the components of the transmitter unit 102 shown in FIG. 2.

Referring back to FIG. 2, the power supply section 207 of the transmitter unit 102 in one embodiment may include a rechargeable battery unit that may be recharged by a separate power supply recharging unit (for example, provided in the receiver unit 104) so that the transmitter unit 102 may be powered for a longer period of usage time. Moreover, in one embodiment, the transmitter unit 102 may be configured without a battery in the power supply section 207, in which case the transmitter unit 102 may be configured to receive power from an external power supply source (for example, a battery) as discussed in further detail below.

Referring yet again to FIG. 2, the temperature detection section 203 of the transmitter unit 102 is configured to monitor the temperature of the skin near the sensor insertion site. The temperature reading is used to adjust the analyte readings obtained from the analog interface 201. The RF transmitter 206 of the transmitter unit 102 may be configured for operation in the frequency band of 315 MHz to 322 MHz, for example, in the United States. Further, in one embodiment, the RF transmitter 206 is configured to modulate the carrier frequency by performing Frequency Shift Keying and Manchester encoding. In one embodiment, the data transmission rate is 19,200 symbols per second, with a minimum transmission range for communication with the primary receiver unit 104.

Referring yet again to FIG. 2, also shown is a leak detection circuit 214 coupled to the guard contact (G) 211 and the processor 204 in the transmitter unit 102 of the data monitoring and management system 100. The leak detection circuit 214 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention may be configured to detect leakage current in the sensor 101 to determine whether the measured sensor data is corrupt or whether the measured data from the sensor 101 is accurate.

Additional detailed description of the continuous analyte monitoring system, its various components including the functional descriptions of the transmitter are provided in U.S. Pat. No. 6,175,752 issued Jan. 16, 2001 entitled “Analyte Monitoring Device and Methods of Use”, and in U.S. application Ser. No. 10/745,878 filed Dec. 26, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,811,231, entitled “Continuous Glucose Monitoring System and Methods of Use”, each assigned to the Assignee of the present application.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the receiver/monitor unit of the data monitoring and management system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 3, the primary receiver unit 104 includes a blood glucose test strip interface 301, an RF receiver 302, an input 303, a temperature detection section 304, and a clock 305, each of which is operatively coupled to a receiver processor 307. As can be further seen from the Figure, the primary receiver unit 104 also includes a power supply 306 operatively coupled to a power conversion and monitoring section 308. Further, the power conversion and monitoring section 308 is also coupled to the receiver processor 307. Moreover, also shown are a receiver serial communication section 309, and an output 310, each operatively coupled to the receiver processor 307.

In one embodiment, the test strip interface 301 includes a glucose level testing portion to receive a manual insertion of a glucose test strip, and thereby determine and display the glucose level of the test strip on the output 310 of the primary receiver unit 104. This manual testing of glucose can be used to calibrate sensor 101. The RF receiver 302 is configured to communicate, via the communication link 103 (FIG. 1) with the RF transmitter 206 of the transmitter unit 102, to receive encoded data signals from the transmitter unit 102 for, among others, signal mixing, demodulation, and other data processing. The input 303 of the primary receiver unit 104 is configured to allow the user to enter information into the primary receiver unit 104 as needed. In one aspect, the input 303 may include one or more keys of a keypad, a touch-sensitive screen, or a voice-activated input command unit. The temperature detection section 304 is configured to provide temperature information of the primary receiver unit 104 to the receiver processor 307, while the clock 305 provides, among others, real time information to the receiver processor 307.

Each of the various components of the primary receiver unit 104 shown in FIG. 3 is powered by the power supply 306 which, in one embodiment, includes a battery. Furthermore, the power conversion and monitoring section 308 is configured to monitor the power usage by the various components in the primary receiver unit 104 for effective power management and to alert the user, for example, in the event of power usage which renders the primary receiver unit 104 in sub-optimal operating conditions. An example of such sub-optimal operating condition may include, for example, operating the vibration output mode (as discussed below) for a period of time thus substantially draining the power supply 306 while the processor 307 (thus, the primary receiver unit 104) is turned on. Moreover, the power conversion and monitoring section 308 may additionally be configured to include a reverse polarity protection circuit such as a field effect transistor (FET) configured as a battery activated switch.

The serial communication section 309 in the primary receiver unit 104 is configured to provide a bi-directional communication path from the testing and/or manufacturing equipment for, among others, initialization, testing, and configuration of the primary receiver unit 104. Serial communication section 309 can also be used to upload data to a computer, such as time-stamped blood glucose data. The communication link with an external device (not shown) can be made, for example, by cable, infrared (IR) or RF link. The output 310 of the primary receiver unit 104 is configured to provide, among others, a graphical user interface (GUI) such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) for displaying information. Additionally, the output 310 may also include an integrated speaker for outputting audible signals as well as to provide vibration output as commonly found in handheld electronic devices, such as mobile telephones presently available. In a further embodiment, the primary receiver unit 104 also includes an electro-luminescent lamp configured to provide backlighting to the output 310 for output visual display in dark ambient surroundings.

Referring back to FIG. 3, the primary receiver unit 104 in one embodiment may also include a storage section such as a programmable, non-volatile memory device as part of the processor 307, or provided separately in the primary receiver unit 104, operatively coupled to the processor 307. The processor 307 is further configured to perform Manchester decoding as well as error detection and correction upon the encoded data signals received from the transmitter unit 102 via the communication link 103.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an overall dynamically updating calibration in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 4, a counter such as a calibration counter is triggered to perform calibration of the monitored data such as the analyte data received from the transmitter unit 102 (FIG. 1). In one embodiment, the calibration counter may include a timer or a clock which may be configured to prompt the user or the patient to initiate the acquisition of reference data at predetermined time intervals. When the calibration counter is initially triggered, the time counter T is initialized to zero (0) (410). Thereafter, a calibration parameter is determined based on, for example, the acquired reference data and the monitored sensor data at time T=0 (420). Moreover, in one embodiment, the monitored sensor data may be updated based on the calibration parameter. In one embodiment, the calibration parameter may include a sensor sensitivity value associated with the analyte sensor 101 (FIG. 1) configured to monitor the analyte levels of the patient.

As described in further detail below, for example, in conjunction with FIG. 5, in particular embodiments, during the initial calibration stage at T=0, a reference glucose value is determined, for example, such as a capillary blood glucose value using a blood glucose meter such as FREESTYLE® meter or PRECISION XTRA™ meter available from Abbott Diabetes Care Inc., Alameda, Calif. In addition, the monitored sensor data at or near the calibration time (T=0) is retrieved which may include the monitored sensor data at time T=T−1, at time T=T+1, or any other suitable time period (for example, from the processing and storage unit 307 (FIG. 3) of the receiver unit 104 (FIG. 1).

More specifically, in one embodiment, the monitored sensor data at the calibration time (T=0) may include one or more monitored sensor data in addition to the monitored sensor data point at the calibration time (T=0). That is, in one embodiment, the monitored sensor data at the calibration time (T=0) may include all monitored sensor data available for retrieval from the receiver unit 104 (FIG. 1) at the calibration time (T=0). For example, to reduce the contribution of noise in the measured sensor data, an average of the two most recent sensor data may be associated with the monitored sensor data at the calibration time (T=0).

Broadly, within the scope of the present disclosure, the monitored sensor data at a predetermined time may include, in particular embodiments, an estimate of the sensor data at the predetermined time as determined by the one or more filters which may be configured to use the monitored sensor data up to and including the data point at the predetermined time (for example, up to the data point at calibration time (T=0)). In one embodiment, one or more filters such as a finite impulse response (FIR) filter may be used to determine the best estimate at a predetermined time using a finite window of monitored sensor data up to the current or most recent monitored sensor data point.

Referring back to FIG. 4, after determining the calibration parameter and updating the monitored data at the calibration time (T=0), the counter is incremented by one (1) (430), and dynamic, real-time update of the calibration parameter is performed (440). In one embodiment, the counter may be configured to increment by one with each reception of sensor data from the transmitter unit 102 (FIG. 1). After dynamically updating the calibration parameter at the subsequent incremented time (T=1), it is determined whether the counter has reached a predetermined count (for example, set at seven (7)) (450). If it is determined that the counter has not reached the predetermined count, then the routine in one embodiment returns to step 430 where the counter is incremented by one (1) and the dynamically updating calibration parameter and monitored sensor data is performed for monitored data at the second subsequent incremented time (T=2).

On the other hand, if it is determined that the counter has reached the predetermined count, then in one embodiment, subsequent monitored sensor data may be updated based on the dynamically updated calibration parameter and/or updated monitored sensor data (460). Thereafter, in particular embodiments, it is determined whether further or subsequent lag correction will likely not yield more accurate monitored data value (or with less errors). Therefore, in one embodiment, the routine terminates and waits for the subsequent calibration time, for example, to repeat the processes described above in conjunction with FIG. 4.

In this manner, within the scope of the present disclosure, there are provided methods and system for dynamically, and in particular embodiments, in real-time, obtaining reference data at a first predetermined time, receiving measured data prior to and including (or near) the first predetermined time, calculating a first calibration parameter (or parameters) using the data, calibrating the measured data based on the calibration parameter, receiving measured data at a second predetermined time, updating the calibration parameter based on all of the previous data and the newly received measured data, calibrating the newly received measured data based on the updated calibration parameter, and repeating a number of times the process of receiving new measurement data, updating the calibration parameter, calibrating the newly received measurement data, and calibrating any newly received measurement data with the fully updated calibration parameter.

A method in a further embodiment may include performing lag compensation on the measured data that is used to update the calibration parameter. Lag compensation may optionally be performed on the measured data that is calibrated. A method in a further embodiment includes filtering the measured data that is used to update the calibration parameter.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the lag correction and calibration routine of the overall dynamically updating calibration shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 5, the determination of calibration parameter and updating the monitored analyte level at the calibration time (T=0) is described in further detail. More specifically, in one embodiment, a capillary blood glucose value is determined at the calibration time (T=0) (510), and the monitored analyte value at the calibration time is retrieved from the receiver unit 104 of the monitoring system 100 (FIG. 1) (520).

Thereafter, a rate of change of the monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) is determined (530). In one embodiment, the rate of change of the monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) may be determined using one or more filters including, but not limited to infinite impulse response (IIR) filter, finite impulse response (FIR) filter, backward and/or forward smoothing techniques (e.g., Kalman filtering technique), or any other equivalent one or more causal filters that balance signal noise reduction with lag correction.

Upon determining the rate of change of the monitored data at the calibration time (T=0), the monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) is updated. In one embodiment, the updated monitored sensor data may include lag corrected monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) (540). Optionally, the lag correction for the monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) may be skipped and not performed. In one embodiment, the lag corrected monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) may be determined by applying the determined rate of change of the monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) to a predetermined constant value. In one embodiment, the predetermined constant value may include, a predetermined time constant.

For example, in one embodiment, the predetermined time constant may include a fixed time constant in the range of approximately four to fifteen minutes, and which may be associated with the one or more of the patient physiological profile, one or more attributes associated with the monitoring system 100 (including, for example but not limited to, the characteristics of the analyte sensor 101). In a further aspect, the predetermined time constant may vary based on one or more factors including, for example, but not limited to the timing and amount of food intake by the patient, exogenous insulin intake, physical activities by the patient such as exercise, or any other factors that may affect the time constant, and which may be empirically determined.

Referring again to FIG. 5, the calibration parameter (for example, the sensitivity of the analyte sensor 101 FIG. 1), may be determined (550) for example, in one embodiment, by determining the ratio of the monitored data (optionally lag corrected) at the calibration time (T=0) and the reference data obtained using, for example, the blood glucose meter as described above. In one embodiment, the calibration parameter may be determined by dividing the monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) by the reference data such as the capillary blood glucose value at the calibration time (T=0).

Thereafter, in one embodiment, the calibrated and updated monitored sensor data at the calibration time (T=0) is determined based upon the monitored data (optionally lag corrected) and the calibration parameter as determined above (560). For example, in one embodiment, the calibrated and updated monitored sensor data at the calibration time (T=0) may be determined by dividing the lag corrected monitored data at calibration time (T=0) by the determined calibration parameter.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the lag correction and dynamically updating calibration routine of the overall dynamically updating calibration shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIGS. 4 and 6, with the counter incremented by one (see step 430 of FIG. 4), the analyte value at the subsequent incremented time (T=1) is retrieved from, for example, the processing and storage unit 307 (FIG. 3) of the receiver unit 104. In particular, in one embodiment, the rate of change of the monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) is updated based on the monitored data value at the subsequent incremented time (T=1) (610). In other words, with the monitored data values at calibration time (T=0) and prior data and at the subsequent incremented time (T=1), the rate of change of the monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) may be estimated with an improved accuracy. Again, in one embodiment, the rate of change may be determined based on one or more not limited to infinite impulse response (IIR) filter, finite impulse response (FIR) filter, backward and/or forward smoothing techniques (e.g., Kalman filtering technique), or any other equivalent filtering or smoothing techniques.

With the updated rate of change at the calibration time (T=0) determined, monitored data (optionally lag corrected) at calibration time (T=0) is updated. That is, in one embodiment, the lag corrected sensor data at the calibration time (T=0) is updated based on the prior lag corrected and calibrated data at calibration time (T=0) (620), and in conjunction with the predetermined constant (for example, the predetermined time constant discussed above), and the updated rate of change of the monitored data at the calibration time (T=0). For example, in one embodiment, the lag corrected monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) is updated or determined by taking the sum of the lag corrected and calibration sensor value at calibration time (T=0) as determined above, with the updated rate of change of monitored data at calibration time (T=0) multiplied by the predetermined constant. In other words, in one embodiment, the updated rate of change of the monitored data at calibration time (T=0) may be multiplied by the predetermined constant, and thereafter, the resulting value is added to the lag corrected and calibrated monitored data at the calibration time (T=0) previously determined (see for example, step 420).

Referring again to FIG. 6, after determining the updated lag corrected monitored data at calibration time (T=0) based on monitored data at the subsequent incremented time (T=1) as described above, in one embodiment, the calibration parameter (for example, the sensitivity of the sensor 101 (FIG. 1) is updated based on the updated lag corrected monitored data at calibration time (T=0) described above (630). In particular, in one embodiment, the calibration parameter may be updated by determining the ratio of the updated lag corrected monitored data at calibration time (T=0) and the reference value (for example, the capillary blood glucose value) determined at calibration time (T=0).

After updating the calibration parameter as described above, in one embodiment, the lag corrected and calibrated monitored data at the subsequent incremented time (T=1) is determined based on the updated calibration parameter value (640). For example, in one embodiment, the monitored sensor data at the subsequent incremented time (T=1) in one embodiment may be divided by the updated sensitivity to determine the dynamically lag corrected and calibrated monitored sensor data at the subsequent incremented time (T=1).

In another embodiment, the dynamically lag corrected and calibrated monitored sensor data at the subsequent incremented time (T=1) may be determined based on the updated calibration parameter and the dynamically lag corrected monitored sensor data at the subsequent incremented time (T=1). In this case, the dynamically updated sensor data at the subsequent incremented time (T=1) in one embodiment may be determined by calculating the rate of change of the monitored data at the subsequent incremented time (T=1) using similar filtering techniques as described above, and applying the predetermined constant (for example, the predetermined time constant discussed above), the result of which is then added to the detected or monitored data at the subsequent incremented time (T=1). In other words, in one embodiment, the calculated rate of change of the monitored data at the subsequent incremented time (T=1) is multiplied by the predetermined time constant, and the resulting value is added to the monitored data value at the subsequent incremented time (T=1). This sum in one embodiment represents the dynamically updated monitored sensor data at the subsequent incremented time (T=1).

In this manner, in one embodiment, lag correction of analyte sensor data may be pseudo-retrospectively (or substantially in real time) updated using the monitored analyte data stream substantially continuously detected by the sensor 101 (FIG. 1) with the dynamic updating of the calibration parameter. Thus, in one aspect, lag error or error due to lag compensation may be overcome by, for example, updating the sensor sensitivity retrospectively with each value of the detected or monitored analyte levels. Accordingly, in one embodiment, calibration inaccuracies due to change (for example, rapid acceleration) of analyte levels after performing discrete calibration may be mitigated by updating the calibration routine taking into consideration the near immediate post calibration analyte sensor data to obtain a more reliable and accurate value associated with the rate of change of the monitored analyte levels. In one embodiment, the overall system accuracy of the monitored and detected analyte values may be improved.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of the lag corrected and calibrated sensor data in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 7, a comparison illustrating the improvement in calibration in the dynamically updated (for example, pseudo-retrospectively performed) lag correction approach in accordance with one embodiment is shown. Referring to FIG. 7, the reference data points (associated with the capillary blood glucose values) are shown as data points associated with legend (A), the no lag corrected monitored sensor data points are associated with legend (B), the lag corrected monitored sensor data points are associated with legend (C), and the dynamically updated monitored sensor data points are associated with legend (D).

Referring to FIG. 7, more specifically, when calibrating during a high rate of change (for example, between the 3^(rd) and 4^(th) hour in the Figure), and with uncorrected lag effects, an error in the sensitivity estimate is introduced. For the “No Lag Correction” trace (B), when the high rate of change subsides, it can be seen that the estimated glucose value is substantially overestimated compared to the reference values. When real time lag correction is introduced, it can be seen that the “Real Time Lag Correction” trace (C) is much closer to the reference values, but this is still a substantial overestimation, primarily when the glucose rate of change is negative (calibration occurred when the rate of change was positive). With the dynamic or pseudo-retrospective lag correction in accordance with one embodiment, it can be seen that the data values (shown with trace associated with legend (D)) match the reference values more accurately.

FIG. 8 illustrates a further example of the lag corrected and calibrated sensor data in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 8, it can be seen that calibration occurs when the glucose rate-of-change is close to zero. Moreover, the real time lag correction signal is shown with a large error when the monitored glucose level is fluctuating, contrasted with the trace or curve associated with the pseudo-retrospective lag correction which, as can be seen from FIG. 8 substantially tracks the reference glucose values (e.g., measured from the capillary blood). Furthermore, it can be seen that in this example, the trace associated with no lag correction is substantially identical to the trace or curve associated with the pseudo-retrospective lag correction. This may result when the monitored analyte level is not changing during calibration, and thus there may be no lag error to correct, and which is factored in the approaches described in accordance with the various embodiments described herein.

Referring yet again to FIG. 8, it can be also seen that in certain cases, the real time lag correction may result in further distortion or more pronounced error factors as compared with the case where no lag correction is performed. Accordingly, in one embodiment, it can be seen from FIG. 8 that the pseudo-retrospective lag correction in accordance with dynamically updating the calibration parameter and the monitored sensor data provides further accuracy and compensation of possible additional errors in the monitored sensor data. This can be seen by comparing the portions of the traces shown in FIG. 8 during the 11^(th) and the 12^(th) hours, where a rapid change in the monitored glucose values as a function of time adversely impacts the accuracy of the monitored data with real time lag correction (without the pseudo-retrospective lag correction including dynamically updated calibration parameter).

Referring to the Figures above, in particular embodiments, the pseudo-retrospective lag correction and calibration and updating of monitored sensor data may be performed by one or more processing units of the one or more receiver unit (104, 106), the transmitter unit 102 or the data processing terminal/infusion section 105. In addition, the one or more of the transmitter unit 102, the primary receiver unit 104, secondary receiver unit 106, or the data processing terminal/infusion section 105 may also incorporate a blood glucose meter functionality, such that, the housing of the respective one or more of the transmitter unit 102, the primary receiver unit 104, secondary receiver unit 106, or the data processing terminal/infusion section 105 may include a test strip port configured to receive a blood sample for determining one or more blood glucose levels of the patient.

In a further embodiment, the one or more of the transmitter unit 102, the primary receiver unit 104, secondary receiver unit 106, or the data processing terminal/infusion section 105 may be configured to receive the blood glucose values wirelessly over a communication link from, for example, a glucose meter. In still a further embodiment, the user or patient manipulating or using the analyte monitoring system 100 (FIG. 1) may manually input the blood glucose value using, for example, a user interface (for example, a keyboard, keypad, and the like) incorporated in the one or more of the transmitter unit 102, the primary receiver unit 104, secondary receiver unit 106, or the data processing terminal/infusion section 105.

A method in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention includes obtaining a reference data point at a first predetermined time, receiving a first data at the first predetermined time, calibrating the first data based on the reference data point, receiving a second data at a second predetermined time, updating the calibrated first data based on the second data, and calibrating the second data.

The reference data point may include a blood glucose value.

The first predetermined time may include a calibration time associated with the calibration of one or more of the first data or the second data.

The first data and the second data may include a respective one of a monitored analyte value.

In one embodiment, calibrating the first data may include determining a first rate of change of the first data at the first predetermined time, and performing a first lag compensation of the first data based on the first rate of change to generate a first lag compensated first data. In a further embodiment, calibrating the first data may include determining a first calibration parameter associated with the first data based on the reference data point and the first lag compensated first data, and generating a calibrated first data based on the first calibration parameter and the first lag compensated first data.

Updating the calibrated first data in one embodiment may include determining a second rate of change of the first data at the first predetermined time based on the second data, and performing a second lag compensation of the first data based on the second rate of change of the first data to generate a second lag compensated first data.

Also, calibrating the second data may include determining a second calibration parameter associated with the first data based on the reference data point and the second lag compensated first data, and generating a calibrated second data based on the second calibration parameter and the second lag compensated first data.

A method in accordance with another embodiment may include determining a calibration parameter associated with a detected analyte value, calibrating the analyte value based on the calibration parameter, and dynamically updating the calibration parameter.

The method in another aspect may include calibrating a second detected analyte value based on the dynamically updated calibration parameter.

Further, dynamically updating the calibration parameter may also include determining a rate of change of the detected analyte value, and generating a lag compensated analyte value based on the rate of change.

In addition, calibrating the analyte value may further include determining a sensitivity associated with the detected analyte value, and applying the sensitivity to the lag compensated analyte value.

Moreover, in still another embodiment, dynamically updating the calibration parameter may include updating the rate of change of the detected analyte value, and updating the lag compensated analyte value, where updating the rate of change may include determining the rate of change of the detected analyte value between a first predetermined time and a second predetermined time.

In still another embodiment, calibrating the analyte value may include detecting a calibration data, determining a sensitivity based on the calibration data and the lag compensated analyte value, and generating a lag compensated and calibrated analyte value.

An apparatus in accordance with another embodiment may include one or more processing units, and a memory for storing instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, causes the one or more processing units to obtain a reference data point at a first predetermined time, receive a first data at the first predetermined time, calibrate the first data based on the reference data point; receive a second data at a second predetermined time; update the calibrated first data based on the second data; and calibrate the second data.

The memory in another aspect may be configured for storing instructions which, when executed by the one or more processing units, causes the one or more processing units to determine a first rate of change of the first data at the first predetermined time, and to perform a first lag compensation of the first data based on the first rate of change to generate a first lag compensated first data.

Moreover, the memory in yet another embodiment may be further configured for storing instructions which, when executed by the one or more processing units, causes the one or more processing units to determine a first calibration parameter associated with the first data based on the reference data point and the first lag compensated first data and to generate a calibrated first data based on the first calibration parameter and the first lag compensated first data.

Additionally, the memory may still be further configured for storing instructions which, when executed by the one or more processing units, causes the one or more processing units to determine a second rate of change of the first data at the first predetermined time based on the second data, and to perform a second lag compensation of the first data based on the second rate of change of the first data to generate a second lag compensated first data.

In yet still another aspect, the memory may be further configured for storing instructions which, when executed by the one or more processing units, causes the one or more processing units to determine a second calibration parameter associated with the first data based on the reference data point and the second lag compensated first data, and to generate a calibrated second data based on the second calibration parameter and the second lag compensated first data.

A method in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention includes, dynamically, and in particular embodiments, in real-time, obtaining reference data at a first predetermined time, receiving measured data prior to and including (or near) the first predetermined time, calculating a first calibration parameter (or parameters) using the data, calibrating the measured data based on the calibration parameter, receiving measured data at a second predetermined time, updating the calibration parameter based on all of the previous data and the newly received measured data, calibrating the newly received measured data based on the updated calibration parameter, and repeating a number of time the process of receiving new measurement data, updating the calibration parameter, calibrating the newly received measurement data, and calibrating any newly received measurement data with the fully updated calibration parameter.

A method in a further embodiment includes performing lag compensation on the measured data that is used to update the calibration parameter. Lag compensation may optionally be performed on the measured data that is calibrated. A method in a further embodiment includes filtering the measured data that is used to update the calibration parameter.

An apparatus in accordance with yet still another embodiment includes one or more processing units, and a memory for storing instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, causes the one or more processing units to dynamically, and in particular embodiments, in real-time, obtain reference data at a first predetermined time, retrieve measured data prior to and including (or near) the first predetermined time, calculate a first calibration parameter (or parameters) using the data, calibrate the measured data based on the calibration parameter, retrieve measured data at a second predetermined time, update the calibration parameter based on all of the previous data and the newly received measured data, calibrate the newly received measured data based on the updated calibration parameter, and repeat a number of times the process of receiving new measurement data, updating the calibration parameter, calibrating the newly received measurement data, and calibrating any newly received measurement data with the fully updated calibration parameter.

Various other modifications and alterations in the structure and method of operation of this invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the present invention and that structures and methods within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method, comprising: obtaining a reference data point at a first predetermined time; receiving a first data at the first predetermined time; calibrating the first data based on the reference data point; receiving a second data at a second predetermined time; updating the calibrated first data based on the second data; and calibrating the second data. 